Identity Theives Use Wireless Security Cameras

Identity theft is currently one of the fastest growing organized criminal activities. The most common form is when credit or bank card information is acquired through various means and an actual working physical copy of the card is made. A Magnetic strip on most cards contains all the data required to make a copy. Thieves collect massive databases of customer information and send the data to factories overseas. These large factories may turn out as many as 5000 cards in a single night and send them back out to be used anywhere in the world.


Consumers are much more aware of the threat and are taking more efforts to protect themselves. Most banking and credit institutions will cover clients losses due to identity theft, however the repercussions are often far greater than financial damage. In some cases the frustration of trying to fix it can last months and derail major purchases, such as a house or automobile, during this time.


Identity thieves use many methods to acquire your personal information. This often includes eliciting store employee cooperation through bribes. The person runs the card through a special device called a skimmer which compiles. The problem with this is the higher risk involved, as anyone observing could potentially spot the activity. ID thieves have found a more covert way of collecting card info. The latest weapon thieves are using is hidden wireless security cameras. Hidden cameras placed near point of sale equipment and ATMs are used to record credit card details and PIN number entry. These criminals pose as maintenance workers or engineers during installation and may return to collect the equipment or have data transmitted off site wirelessly. Drop tile ceilings commonly found in commercial buildings retail stores are a perfect place to hide pinhole cameras and a digital video recorder because there is plenty of space and it can be easily accessed.


What can you do to protect yourself from identity theft crimes, since the wireless security cameras used by thieves are inexpensive and could be place anywhere? The number one rule is to pay attention to what is happening during transactions. It is not a time to be chatting with friends and browsing items at the checkout. Watch what the sales clerk is doing with your card or insist that you be the one to swipe the card. If you notice him swipe your card several times or use a different card reader this is a red flag. Do not be afraid that you may offend those standing behind you by covering up the keypad while you enter your PIN number. A hidden camera could be anywhere. Do not assume that the area is secure just because you are in a business setting. Of course one sure fire way is to avoid using a card at all, and simply withdraw cash from the bank teller the old fashioned way.



About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online provider of wireless security cameras and hidden cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit www.security-cams.com.

Security Cameras for the Home

Home security is becoming more affordable and as a result more people are interested in installing home surveillance cameras for safety and security. Trying to decide what kind of camera to purchase can seem overwhelming. Take some time to think about what it is you want to secure with your surveillance system. Here are some things to consider when determining what type of security camera is right for your needs.
If you want to protect your house from the outside, then outdoor spy cams would be your best option. They are obvious because of their size and people will see that your house is secured. That is actually a good reason to put a security camera on the outside of your home. It will let burglars know that your house is protected and they will be less likely to attempt a break in. If you decide to install an outdoor camera, then you will want to make sure that it is weatherproof and waterproof. You also want to be sure that rough weather won’t damage or break it. Decide if you need night time surveillance. Outdoor cameras with infrared are available for capturing images at night.
Spy cameras inside the house are also used for security purposes. In case burglars do break into your house, your home spy cams will detect the burglars and record their moves. There are even home security systems that have alarm functions built-in. These security systems have motion detection devices. Once armed these systems trigger an alarm if movement is detected. The type of alarm triggered can vary from sound signals, flashing light, an automatic phone call to you or your neighbours if you are away, or even an email sent to your PC or laptop.
You may have the need for a home spy cam that is not for security, but for spy and surveillance purposes. People use hidden cameras in their houses to spy on their nannies, spouses, or kids. You will want cameras that can easily be hidden for this type of surveillance. There are mini spy cameras or pin-hole cameras used for this purpose. These small cameras can be hidden anywhere, in stuffed animals, behind the book shelf, or near the computer. They can also be wired or wireless. Another alternative would be ready made hidden cameras, meaning that they are already stuffed into some regular everyday objects such as lamps, fake plants, or books.
Once you have decided if you need outside or inside security, visible or hidden surveillance, you can now begin to shop around for the best camera for your investment.


About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online provider of security cameras and hidden cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

Security Cameras in Taxicabs

In September 2005 the city of Ottawa passed a bylaw that would require all city taxi cab drivers to install security cameras in their vehicles by March 21, 2008. The mini security cameras would snap periodic still photos of a car’s occupants, On February 12, 2008 hundreds of taxi drivers protested outside of city hall in Ottawa by clogging the streets and honking their horns defiantly. Prior to this demonstration of protest the taxi driver’s union representative announced that they refused to have the cameras installed without their consent.

Cost and privacy are the two major issues that have the cab drivers up in arms. "Our people feel that the camera is going to be used to discipline drivers," says Mohamad Alsadi, a national representative of the Canadian Auto Workers Union. Drivers were told that the cameras would cost between $700 and $1,000, but the price has climbed to $1,500. Drivers have been charging an extra 5 cents surcharge on all fares to help fund the cameras, but the difference in cost will have to be paid by drivers/owners of the cars.

As a result of the protest and a subsequent city council meeting , the date that drivers are required to have cameras installed by has been moved to July 2, 2008. The mayor threatened that taxi drivers would risk having their licences lifted if they refused to have the cameras installed. In the meeting mayor O’Brian stated, "The key issue in terms of my decision-making was related to public safety. A secondary issue was the safety of the drivers." This slightly thoughtless statement may explain why a large number of drivers believe that the bylaw is discriminatory. Following the meeting, the mayor's office released a statement to clarify his comment about public safety. It said the cameras are for the benefit of both the public and drivers equally, and the mayor apologized for any confusion his comments may have caused.


Advantages of taxi security camera include protection for the drivers, deterrent for potential violence, and prevention of robberies. According to Stats Canada for the period 2001 to 2005, cab driving was the most dangerous work-related job in Canada. Cab drivers work all hours of the night and in all neighbourhoods. They put themselves at the mercy of their passengers. Between 2001 and 2003, crimes against Manitoba city taxi drivers dropped 79% after security cameras were installed and mandated by the city. At the same time, the cameras monitor driver behaviour as well. Passengers aren't the only ones with the potential to act out of line in a taxi cab. Drivers can also be guilty on occasion. Taxi cameras help to ensure that cab drivers carry out their duties in a professional manner. In cases where violent confrontations or robberies do take place, in-cab security cameras can provide valuable video evidence for criminal investigations.

The drivers union claims they won’t cave on this issue and have not ruled out the possibility of a strike. The city council representative stated that the drivers concerns of cost and privacy are being addressed, but as it stands the bylaw will be enforced starting July 2, 2008. Ottawa residents may find it difficult to find a cab come July.


About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online provider of mini security cameras and security cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

What To Do If You Think Your Being Bugged

Surveillance technology has evolved by leaps and bounds over the last several years. Audio and video bugging devices have gotten smaller and are more readily available than ever. Concealable high resolution color cameras and audio recording devices that can store hundreds of hours of audio can be purchased by anyone for less than one hundred dollars in a local “spy” store or on the internet. Mini security cameras are allowed in public places and to help protect private property, but it is not uncommon for them to be placed in hotel rooms, showers, cars, phone lines, While laws prohibit such infringement of privacy not everyone abides by them. Whether you are involved in high profile business deals, developing new technology, going through a divorce or other legal proceedings, or shower at the local gym you may be at risk from prying eyes and ears.

Bug detectors are a small device that can pick up transmitted signals from video or audio bugging devices. Most bugs rely on wireless technology and send radio frequency (RF) signals, similar to those used by cell phones, back to receiving and recording equipment. We’ve all seen movies where the cops are hiding out in a “carpet cleaning” van filled with computers and headsets parked just outside a villain’s home, but these new devices are capable of sending signals as far as five miles away. Others have data storage built in, such as an SD style card commonly used by digital cameras. These devices are planted and picked up at a later date. Detection equipment is equally compact and sophisticated which allows you to protect yourself where ever you may go. Some kits carried on your key chain can help you locate hidden camera lenses and RF signals from video/audio bugs. They are easy to use and with the touch of a button you can secure your location enabling you to discuss your business or try on those clothes in the fitting rooms with piece of mind that you aren’t being monitored. If a bug is present they will silently alert you with vibrations.

If you are concerned you are being targeted for surveillance never discuss your business in public places where anyone can be listening. To check an area use both a bug detector and conduct a physical inspection of as well, since some devices may operate at extremely low power levels. Avoid using a cordless or cell phone to make calls as these can be easily picked up. Landlines can be secured using a special device that checks for wiretaps. If bugs are bugging you consider turning to a professional electronics countermeasure (ECM) security company to conduct a full sweep of your house or office.

About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online provider of mini security cameras and surveillance cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.

Fake Security Cameras

Protecting your property whether it is a home, estate, or business takes careful consideration. A visible security system is a proven deterrent for thieves and vandals out to commit a crime. Often these common criminals are looking for an easy low risk hit and will move on to other areas once they notice your area is under surveillance. While this doesn’t eliminate a crime it can protect you. Security cameras can provide visuals of the suspects which police can act on immediately. This greatly increases their chances of catching the perpetrators. Security systems are relatively simple to setup and customize to whatever your needs may be. Most systems include motion sensors, lights, mini security cameras, and a digital video recording station. While the cost of security systems has come down in recent years they are still a sizeable yet worthwhile investment. The piece of mind knowing your possessions are being looked after is priceless.

If you are not ready to setup a full fledged security system or it simply isn’t feasible based on your needs consider implementing a few fake security cameras. Fake cameras area essentially an actual security camera or camera housing that isn’t connected to any form of monitoring system. They have the exact appearance of a real security camera and are available in a variety of sizes and styles. Expect to pay between $10 and $30 dollars per unit. They can be installed in a few minutes and provide the same deterrent factor of a real security system, since thieves won’t know the difference. A convincing camera will include blinking LED’s, realistic cables, and an indoor or outdoor housing. More advanced cameras have automatic pan and tilt functions to give the appearance they are scanning an area. Some of these include motion sensors coupled with tracking capabilities. A static camera suddenly panning and tracking an approaching person is enough to send any potential threat packing on their way.

Dummy security cameras may be a great choice for more remote areas of your property or business, such as a parking lot or fenced in supply yard. Blinking LED’s will ensure the camera is noticed. You can also bolster the presence of an existing system. Dummy cams can be upgraded at later date with little difficulty. Fake surveillance cameras create the illusion of a fully functional security system. The bottom line is a crook simply won’t be able to tell if the system is real or not, and most likely won’t even question it.

About the Author: Mike Ward is the owner and operator of Protection Depot, a leading online provider of mini security cameras and surveillance cameras. For more information about security cameras, please visit Protection Depot.